Multi-Analytical Characterization of an Ancient Cartonnage Fragment from the American University Excavations. A Case Study

Abstract

Cartonnage is one of the most valuable cultural heritage artifacts that are submitted to several degradation mechanisms due to their composite structure, and sensitive nature. In this paper, scientific techniques were used to estimate a cartonnage fragment. The use of non-destructive procedures was carried out to investigate the multi layered structure of cartonnage. The procedures include a Digital microscope and SEM were used to identify the support layer structure, EDS microanalysis was able to detect and identify the ground layer, Raman spectroscopy used to analyze the color layer for pigments identification, also XRF microanalysis was used for the identification of color samples, for the yellow, red, green, and black colors, the results concluded orpiment, red ochre, Egyptian green, and carbon-based pigment were found in the chromatic layer.